Draper James Cape (Also available here.) / Cashmere Camel Sweater (Love the Everlane version, also here. Also a big fan of J.Crew’s version.) / Hudson Jeans / $48 Tote (Such a steal, and back in stock!) / Stuart Weitzman Over-the-Knee Boots (Looking for a more affordable pair? Try these boots! I also love this pair from Blondo because they’re waterproof.) / ma
ma’s Jacket (Adult version here), Suede Patch Top, Herringbone Leggings and Mary Jane Sneakers / Mitch’s Blazer c/o
Do you mind if I walk you through a gorgeous day in New York?
The weather was perfect, and it was our first day back. We felt like little kids or something; we were practically skipping down the street in joy, haha. First, we visited Madison Square Park and the Flatiron District because of its proximity to our hotel. Then we walked down to the Village, and tried out the playground at Washington Square Park. After that, we “shopped” in SoHo… and we ended up in Tribeca.
It was so much fun guiding Emma through New York, and we loved telling her about all our important moments that took place around the city. So many times throughout the day, Mitch and I found ourselves daydreaming about what it would be like to raise her there.
“We could do this!”
“Totally!”
“But…”
“I know.”
I was a constant back and forth that lasted throughout the entirety of our trip. But as I write this at midnight on Halloween night after having the best trick-or-treating experience ever with friends and their kiddos, I’m reminded that we’re just where we’re supposed to be. And yes, maybe I’m using you guys and this blog as a way to convince myself that moving back to New York is not the right move at this time. ;) And yes, you’re probably sick of hearing me talk about this. For that, I’m sorry. :) But maybe it’s okay?! And maybe you understand and can relate in some way?!
Either way, I want to make New York a priority this year. Last year, we didn’t make it back enough. But 2017 and 2018 are gifts, as Mitch is at home, and we have much more flexibility. I want go to back for longer stretches of time; see more friends and family; get that feeling of “being home” more often.
I’ll let the photos speak for themselves, though. It was a wonderful day, and one that I’ll remember for a long time. :)
In terms of my outfit, I wore this gorgeous Draper James cape, which is also available here. I’m obsessed! It’s navy, but since it’s a very dark navy, I can totally get away with pairing it with black. And it’s CRAZY warm. No, I wouldn’t recommend it for January or February in Chicago, but I’ve worn it on some very chilly days both in New York and in Chicago, and I’ve stayed toasty. (And stylish!) It’s also not itchy, which is a huge plus. (Side note: I’ve included a ton of my current favorite capes and ponchos above. Be sure to check ’em out! Favorites include this one by J.Crew, this one by Barbour, this one by Sole Society, this one by Sole Society, this one by Halogen, and this one that Tuckernuck carries.)
My camel cashmere sweater is also worth mentioning. I wear it weekly, as it goes with everything and is SO soft. It’s also such a steal! I love J.Crew’s version of it, too… and the Everlane sweater is perfect. (More sizes here.) I’m wearing a size small in my sweater, btw.
Finally, the boots and tote. The boots are on the (insanely) pricey side, and I’ll admit that I likely wouldn’t own them if it weren’t for this blog. That said, this WAY more affordable pair is adorable and very similar. And the tote, which is super soft, is only $48! You can’t beat that.
Okay, guys. This lobster is off to bed. ;) Hope you had a wonderful Halloween!






















Shop the post:
Draper James Cape (Also available here.) / Cashmere Camel Sweater (Love the Everlane version, also here. Also a big fan of J.Crew’s version.) / Hudson Jeans / $48 Tote (Such a steal, and back in stock!) / Stuart Weitzman Over-the-Knee Boots (Looking for a more affordable pair? Try these boots! I also love this pair from Blondo because they’re waterproof.) / Emma’s Jacket (Adult version here), Suede Patch Top, Herringbone Leggings and Mary Jane Sneakers / Mitch’s Blazer c/o
I love all of your posts about your conflicting feelings about moving! About a year ago my husband and I relocated to a city that is far from both of our families and all of our friends and it is hard! I wish we had the flexibility that you do to go back for longer stretches of time, though I also find that going back is both a blessing and a curse in that I always feel more homesick right after visiting than I did before. As someone who also spent a number of years in NYC….once a new yorker, always a new yorker! I always say that if I money was no object, I’d happily raise kids in NYC, but in reality there is no way for us to afford to live the way we want in new york. Your life in Chicago looks wonderful! I hope we are able to cultivate that sense of community in our new city as well.
Aw, Maura, this meant a lot to me! Thank you for your thoughtful message. Totally agree that visiting can be both a blessing and a curse, as that’s exactly what we experienced this past trip to NYC. Sending you positive thoughts as you adjust to life in your new city! It took us about a year to love Chicago, but now I can’t imagine leaving. :) You’ve got this! xx
Hi Kelly! Love all your posts. I’m traveling to Chicago for business/a long weekend next week and was wondering if you have any definite suggestions for restaurants/bars/overall sightseeing in Chicago? Thanks!
Awwww! YES! I would go to Summer House for dinner, and get drinks at Cindy’s Rooftop or the J.Parker. I really need to get a guide to Chicago up on the blog, haha. Adding that to my to-do list for sure!
Ok these photos are gorgeous but the real question is how do you get nobody in your flatiron building shot? SPILL NOW!
Haha! Omg, no. It was super crowded. We just stand near the lights/walk signs, and wait for everyone to cross. There are usually like 5-10 seconds of no people when we do that! But definitely hard, haha!! MISS YOU!
ok you’re inspiring me to give it another try. Miss your faceeeeee.
Hi Kelly! I love the poncho! Quick question… so my mom and I are going to visits New York in December. Do you have any good suggestion on where to eat/what to do? Emma is darling!!!